30 CoStar Group Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our CoStar Group Inc. interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How is CoStar Group transforming the future of real estate?
How to Answer
The way you answer this question will show the interviewer how much research you have done on CoStar Group Inc. before your interview. Take a look at any awards and accolades CoStar Group Inc. has received recently. Perhaps there are articles and press releases that you can rely on as well. Mention how you believe they are disrupting the real estate industry, and be sure to show your excitement for joining their team!
1st Answer Example
"I believe that CoStar Group Inc. is transforming the future of real estate by creating a one-stop shop for all things real estate. Typically, buying or selling a home is a stressful event; one has to hire a broker, a mortgage lender, a lawyer, and more. With a company like yours, you help home buyers through each stage in a well-timed, incredibly well-supported platform. What you are doing is entirely shaking up the industry, and I cannot wait to become a part of it."
2nd Answer Example
"Not only is CoStar Group Inc. transforming real estate by giving buyers and sellers more options than just a typical real estate exchange with a realtor, but you are empowering a significant movement in a very traditional industry. Real estate has been the same for decades, and now, thanks to CoStar Group Inc. the cumbersome process of buying and selling a home is changed forever."
2. Who are CoStar Group top competitors? Name for me one factor that we do better than the rest.
How to Answer
The work that CoStar Group Inc. is bringing to the world is relatively new in the online real estate industry. For that reason, it's essential that you come to your interview with a great idea of what they do, and who is trying to compete with these efforts. Take some notes on their competitors and take the time to compare services. What do you believe is the stand-out factor for CoStar Group Inc.?
1st Answer Example
"I understand that you were one of the first to market with a full-service online property platform and today your top competitors are (A), and (B). One factor that stands out to me, above all the rest, is the fact that your platform offers many add-on services such as a sales proceeds calculator, home estimation tools, and local news feeds for your users to stay in-the-know on what is happening in their marketplace."
2nd Answer Example
"Research shows me that your top competitors are (A), (B), and (C), although CoStar Group Inc. was the first to market with many services that went beyond offering static listings. I understand that you source insights from the people who live in particular neighborhoods so that you can offer new buyers a deeper understanding of the community they are interested in moving. Passing along advice from local real estate agents, brokers and other real estate professionals is another reason why CoStar Group Inc. stands out above the rest."
3. CoStar Group is seeking a degree in Computer Science or another technical discipline. Walk me through your education.
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely have an idea of your education background from your resume. What they are asking is for you to take a few minutes to bring the experience to life for them! This question offers you the opportunity to discuss your major, any special academic recognition, or even what your favorite coursework included. Discuss the strengths gained during your post-secondary training and how those skills will be used in your new position with CoStar Group Inc..
1st Answer Example
"I have a BS in Computer Science, I also have a great deal of on the job training and certifications, all listed on my resume. One of the biggest take-away's from my post-secondary experience was learning how to manage my time while working on multiple projects successfully. I perfected my multi-tasking skills and am eager to bringing those to work for CoStar Group Inc., in addition to my extensive technical knowledge."
2nd Answer Example
"I completed my Bachelor of Engineering Technology from Penn State University in 2004. During that time, I specialized in Data Management and Analysis. I graduated with a 3.99 GPA, as one of the top students in my class."
4. We primarily lean on React, Redux, Node.js, Java, Python, and SQL. With which language are you most familiar?
How to Answer
The interviewer is giving you some insight into the languages that you will be using at CoStar Group Inc. should you be the successful candidate. Considering the list of languages, think about which ones you have the most experience with, and where you are most comfortable. If you'd like, you can rank your skills from beginner to intermediate, advanced, and expert. Doing so will give the interviewer a good idea of where you stand with each language.
1st Answer Example
"I am familiar with all of these languages; however, my skill level varies between these. I am most experienced and comfortable with Python and SQL, having been immersed in these for the past ten years. With React and Redux, I am a beginner level user and very open to working on strengthening these skills."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, I work nearly all day in Java and Node. I would consider myself an advanced user in each of these. When it comes to Python, SQL, React, and Redux, I am an intermediate user. I can certainly commit to learning these further, before my first day at CoStar Group Inc.."
5. If you had to choose just one, what would you consider to be your technical specialty?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know about your particular areas of interest or ability, and what makes you a unique candidate. Talk to the interviewer about your strengths and be sure to highlight any specific skills that you excel in. It's a great idea to highlight particular skills listed inside the CoStar Group Inc. job description.
1st Answer Example
"Technically speaking, my one greatest strength is in my front-end expertise. I love making pragmatic architecture recommendations and providing sound decisions that guide the development process."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been focusing my career on becoming a senior data engineer and would say that data pipeline architecture is my primary technical specialty."
6. In your opinion, what has been the most exciting advancement in the real estate industry this year?
How to Answer
The hiring authority would like to see that you are up to date on what is happening in the real estate industry and that you come from a position of understanding as far as how CoStar Group Inc. is disrupting an industry dripping in tradition. Discuss the resources you use to stay on top of industry trends and be prepared to discuss one exciting advancement that you find memorable.
1st Answer Example
"I recently read an article on blockchain technology and how it's impacting the real estate industry. In a nutshell, because of something called tokenization, landlords may be able to use blockchain to sell portions of ownership in their properties. The article also touched on how property titles could be more securely and more conveniently stored, thanks to blockchain ledgers. This topic is one that I am sure impacts the approach at CoStar Group Inc. for future offerings on your platform."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been learning more about virtual reality, and it's fascinating how VR is impacting the real estate industry. Viewing a property is one of the most critical steps to renting or selling a property so, the implementation of VR for walkthroughs is a game changer. VR allows prospective tenants and homebuyers to walk through properties in off-hours and without an appointment. I look forward to seeing how CoStar Group Inc. will leverage VR on your platform this year."
7. What types of industries have your previous projects focused on?
How to Answer
The hiring authority would like a fuller idea of the types of projects and industries you have experience within, giving them a better idea of what you will bring to CoStar Group Inc.; should they hire you. Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your work experience; being sure to express how your experience over other industries will help you to succeed in this role.
1st Answer Example
"The bulk of my career has been within the banking and finance industry. This experience will help me with online property listing and real estate services because I understand a lot of the industry jargon surrounding mortgages and lending. Also, I am well versed in the confidentiality, and security needs that come with building a platform that deals with sensitive transactions and large purchases."
2nd Answer Example
"My previous projects have focused on the healthcare and medical industry. I believe there are a lot of transferable skills between healthcare and real estate. These include the sensitivity of the information stored, the high-stakes present in both industries, and the complexity behind the data. I am eager to learn everything that I can about CoStar Group Inc. and your platform."
8. CoStar Group hosts regular hackathons to encourage innovation and autonomy. When have you created a new product, service, or process with the help of your tea?
How to Answer
It's vital that you learn about the various ways CoStar Group Inc. helps and encourages growth in its teams. A common approach to sparking workplace innovation in the online platform world is 'hackathons.' Typically a hackathon is a multi-day event in which computer programmers, graphic designers, interface designers, project managers, and others involved in software development get together and collaborate on new and exciting software projects.
Discuss a time when you have acted with innovation and created a new product or even improved an existing service. Assure the interviewer that you are creative-minded and ready to help CoStar Group Inc. achieve new industry breakthroughs.
1st Answer Example
"I worked on a significant release with my current company last year for which I am very proud. Using real-time data, we launched a program that used public records to estimate a vehicle's value. People shopping for a new car could tap into this database to see what a fair price would be, to pay. Our program used neural networks and computer vision to distinguish between high and low-end finishes, and then we used the real-time data to help empower our users. I can see how an approach like this one would be beneficial within the real estate industry as well."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous role, I was fortunate enough to be part of a group that introduced my company to the idea of tiered monthly subscriptions where, in addition to our general customer service, we added premium service options. Our customer base responded very positively, and we kept the program running for a few years."
9. Pick an app on your phone and sell it to me.
How to Answer
This question is a catch-all for any interviewer in the online platform industry because it covers a candidate's knowledge whether they are in sales, design, engineering, or other development based role. Think of your favorite app on your phone, and discuss with the interviewer why it's your choice - convincing them that they should download the app as well! Feel free to have some fun with this question.
1st Answer Example
"My absolute favorite app is the Rosetta Stone app. It has nearly al 5-star ratings and is widely known as one of the most effective ways to learn a new language. The interface is easy to navigate, and you can also learn from the desktop experience. I learned to speak Spanish in just three months. Imagine what you could do with a new language?"
2nd Answer Example
"Snapchat is by far the app that everyone should download. Snapchat users are introduced to lenses and augmented reality, which is an exciting concept that is not new, but new to everyday users. Snapchat is amazing for real-time effects and videos, and you are introduced to fun tools like face detection. Did you know that it would take someone ten years to view all of the photos ever exchanged on Snapchat? One hundred eighty-seven million daily users can't be wrong!"
10. This role with CoStar Group is highly technical. What is your understanding of this position and the responsibilities that come with it?
How to Answer
It's time for you to assure the interviewer that you bring a full understanding of the technical requirements to succeed in this job. It is essential that you research the role and thoroughly consume the information provided in the CoStar Group Inc. job description. Keep your answer to the point being sure to use the same language used in the job description.
1st Answer Example
"From our past conversation, understanding the job description, and researching the role online I feel that the job is best described as a project leader working with data and product teams to develop new tools and systems to support the growth of the business. The technical requirements that you would like to see are Python, Java, and AWS services. I am well versed in the tasks and programs you are asking for and am confident that I meet the strict requirements to perform in this role successfully."
2nd Answer Example
"My understanding is that you seek a candidate with expert level skills in React, Redux, Node.js, Java, Python, and SQL who can train junior employees. I am an expert user in all six of these areas. Do you have any questions about my technical expertise?"
11. The online property listing services industry is highly competitive. How will you help CoStar Group stay ahead of its competitors?
How to Answer
It is critical that you research CoStar Group Inc., and their most vigorous competitors, before your interview. What does CoStar Group Inc. do best, and who is trying to do it better? Speak openly with the interviewer about your ability to work competitively and how you plan to contribute to their continued success.
1st Answer Example
"I believe the best way to stay ahead of your competitors is to pay a big amount of attention to the fine details. When you put out a great service, others will try to mimic your work, but they will cut corners because they will feel rushed to get it out on the marketplace first. I will contribute to the success of CoStar Group Inc. by committing my most attentive work to you every day."
2nd Answer Example
"I think that the best way to stay ahead of competitors is to keep your offering as simple as possible while remaining innovative. People want simple, easy-to-use services, which they can understand and access easily. What I've seen from competitors lately is that they overcomplicate their products."
12. Market research is at the heart of what we do at CoStar Group. How do you approach a project before beginning?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your work habits and how you prefer to approach a new project. If you have a sense of how CoStar Group Inc. prefers to approach their work, you should discuss that method. For instance, if the interviewer tells you that they prefer extensive research before beginning a project, that is your queue to talk about your excellent research skills.
1st Answer Example
"I agree that market research is the backbone of any project, especially in the online property listing services industry where data is constantly changing. Without research, important details are missed, and much time is wasted. I like to research before starting a project so that I can lay out a plan and understand the potential hurdles as well."
2nd Answer Example
"Although there may be some instances at CoStar Group Inc. where jumping right it may be required, I always prefer to research before I being a project. I will grab a team member for added support, and ask them to cross-reference my research and poke holes in my project theory wherever possible. Rest assured; I would always follow your preferred methods, should I be hired."
13. What do you know about the workplace culture at CoStar Group?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to see that you have researched their offering, ensuring that CoStar Group Inc. is an excellent fit for your next career adventure! Mention some points that you know are offered in this role, discussing which areas are most exciting for you.
1st Answer Example
"I know that CoStar Group Inc. was one of the first to market with so many online property and real estate services. Being so innovative, it's no surprise that your workplace culture is collaborative, fun, and focused on bringing out the creativity of your teams. I hear that you host game nights, hackathons, happy hours, and a robust health and wellness program. There are many more dimensions to our workplace culture that I am eager to learn more about."
2nd Answer Example
"You had me at your speaker series offerings! The fact that CoStar Group Inc. offers lunch and learn sessions with industry leaders and savvy professionals on business, leadership, and trends in the online industry, tells me everything I need to know. Your organization focuses on building up your staff and helping everyone grow into bigger and better roles."
14. CoStar Group encourages cross-departmental collaboration. Do you have experience collaborating between developers, designers, and other stakeholders?
How to Answer
Whether your work experience is with a startup, a small company, or an enterprise organization, you likely have experience collaborating with people who have different job functions from you. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to CoStar Group Inc. since they are known for leading highly collaborative projects.
In the past, you may have been asked to work on a project with teams from another department. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I have indeed worked in many cross-functional environments. Currently, I lead the front-end development team and collaborate with a couple of engineering and design reams regularly. We all work well together to ensure an amazing product that our users love."
2nd Answer Example
"When I worked for a development agency, I collaborated across departments all the time. The majority of my interactions were with developers and designers. We would meet every week to discuss larger projects and then collaborate through the week as needed. It was a great set-up and ensured smooth progress at all project stages."
15. Describe an ongoing problem at your current job, that you were able to overcome.
How to Answer
Every place of employment will have its challenges, so the interviewer isn't asking for you to talk about the things you didn't like about your job. Remaining positive, speak to the interviewer about a specific issue that you were able to overcome in your previous role, based on your unique skill set. The way that you answer this question will also show the interviewer the type of responsibilities you currently hold.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, one ongoing problem is the disconnect and separation in the workplace between the developers, designers, and the sales team. I have begun to overcome this by implementing weekly lunch and learns where everyone is welcome. The topics are focused on a variety of situations that we all face in the company. I feel that the better we all understand each other's jobs and functions, the better we can all get along. So far, this approach has been working very well."
2nd Answer Example
"An ongoing issue in our department was a lack of funds allocated to the projects that our leadership had already approved. It seemed as though they wanted us to perform miracles with very little financial bandwidth. To overcome this, we banded as a team to decide where we could cut from our individual budgets to ensure the delivery of a solid product."
16. CoStar Group operates in an ever-shifting industry. What is the most significant shift you have had to deal with in your career?
How to Answer
Being able to pivot and adapt is a critical skill to have at CoStar Group Inc. and when working in the online database industry. The interviewer would like to know the types of challenges you face in your career and a specific time when you had to adapt to stay on track. You need to show CoStar Group Inc. that you can remain productive in the face of change and that you are resilient. Assure the interviewer that you can adapt to significant changes in a professional manner.
1st Answer Example
"One of the things that I love most about this industry is the fact that I am continually learning and growing; being kept on my toes. The biggest change in my career was learning to report to an entirely new management team when my company merged with a large competitor. It's difficult to adjust, but I was able to keep an open mind, and met some great new people while being allowed to develop my skill set further."
2nd Answer Example
"I first began my development career when Python was making a serious impact in the programming language industry. I had been trained solely in Java and needed to adapt quickly. I watched YouTube videos for hours every day and took formal online courses. This example shows that I can adapt to the introduction of new programs, software, and languages. I am confident in my ability to keep the pace in this ever-shifting industry."
17. CoStar Group has high expectations when it comes to our platform and customer experience. How do you react when you are dissatisfied with the quality, or the outcome of your work?
How to Answer
Because of the high standards at CoStar Group Inc., the interviewer would like to know how you respond when you feel that your work does not meet expectations. There will always be a time when you are not happy with the work that you deliver, but your reaction is what will determine whether or not you recover from the disappointment. Show that you have the maturity to be able to respond to dissatisfaction productively.
1st Answer Example
"The last time I was dissatisfied with my work, I asked my boss if there was time for me to re-do the components with which I was not happy. The deadline was tight, but I did not believe the timeline should affect the quality of what I delivered. She agreed and gave me the time to revisit the aspects that I felt were not up to my usual standard. I worked around 5 hours of overtime to get the project exactly where I had pictured it, and everyone was satisfied in the end."
2nd Answer Example
"In programming and design, there is some room to experiment with our work and bounce back from mistakes. I allow myself to make mistakes, tweak my work, and play around with different designs, for instance. My philosophy is that a creative mind is always seeking improvements."
18. Where do you see your career with CoStar Group 12 months from now?
How to Answer
Interviewing, hiring, and onboarding is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor for CoStar Group Inc.. The interviewer wants to know that, if engaged, you will see this as a longer-term fit. Discuss your career plans, goals, and how those fit with what CoStar Group Inc. can offer you shortly down the road. Describe your passion for this opportunity, and where you see your career taking you! If you are unsure, take a look at the current openings listed on the CoStar Group Inc. career site and read some of the descriptions for roles a step or two above your own.
1st Answer Example
"I am thrilled to be interviewing at CoStar Group Inc. for your front-end developer opportunity. I believe with the talents and skill set I bring to your team, we will solve some stimulating challenges. This role is an opportunity I have been seeking for some time now, so I plan to stay for the long term should I be lucky enough to be hired. If I were to have an opportunity for growth at CoStar Group Inc., I saw a job posting for a senior front end software development engineer that caught my eye. This role is one I would be happy to grow into over time."
2nd Answer Example
"One year from now, I would like to see myself climbing the ranks within your engineering team. It's important to me that I continue to learn and grow, applying my skills to the best of my ability for my employer. I saw a Data Engineer position on your website that caught my eye. I would need to strengthen my experience in Python development; however, this is a nice goal to set."
19. If offered this role at CoStar Group, how will you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you plan to start relationships with your new co-workers and management, should you be the successful candidate. CoStar Group Inc. works hard to nurture a cohesive workplace culture and environment, so it's vital that you will find your place within the team very quickly. Due to a wide variety of personalities, coworker connections can take time to form. How do you ensure that you have an active line of communication with your co-workers and supervisors, right from the start?
Some ways to quickly build relationships include:
- Be willing to accept feedback and help
- Offer to join a committee or volunteer assistance in some way
- Do not have an air of entitlement or act as though you know the ins and outs immediately
- Avoid all company gossip, at all cost
- Be early on your first day (and every day after that!)
- Be well versed in the company's goals, and culture
1st Answer Example
"I like to ask my new colleagues for their best tip, and also what they are currently working on. Developer types like to bounce ideas off of others, which makes these two questions a very effective way to get to know my co-workers and management team."
2nd Answer Example
"First impressions are everything, and I make a strong attempt to build relationships with all of my co-workers and management team, right up front. I ask discovery questions to learn how I can best support them when working together. It is also important to gain insight into their preferred methods of communications."
20. What type of work environment do you need to be the most productive?
How to Answer
CoStar Group Inc. wants to know how they can maintain a healthy level of productivity from you, should you be hired. Maybe you can be productive in any environment or, there are particular types of situations that you find distracting and would prefer to avoid. Either way, discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment that offered in this position before the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative and flexible. I currently work in a similar environment and find that I can be very productive when there is the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments, although that isn't my preference."
2nd Answer Example
"I am productive in work environments where there is little nepotism or hierarchy. As I grow in my career, I aim to be the type of manager who has an open-door policy where my teammates can feel comfortable coming to me with questions and needs. This type of environment is one that I appreciate in return. I understand that CoStar Group Inc. hires from within whenever possible, and encourages employee growth and promotion."
21. In your current position, what tasks have you been asked to do that were out of your wheelhouse? How did you succeed?
How to Answer
At CoStar Group Inc. you may be learning a new industry, and with that comes being asked to perform tasks with which you may not be the most comfortable. The interviewer wants to know how you approach a job when you do not possess the knowledge or experience. Most of us ask others for help or research to find the answer. Highlight to the interviewer that you are competent when it comes to learning and gaining new skills. Show that you do not get frustrated; instead, you take it as an opportunity to grow.
1st Answer Example
"I had minimal training going into my latest role because the company was a start-up with little direction but a lot of pressure on the gas pedal. I received training on their software system but nothing formal surrounding their web stack. Through many online tutorials and YouTube videos, I taught myself how what I needed to do, to be successful at my job."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, I was asked to lead software audit reviews, which I had never done before. I had to learn the standards and how to run an audit appropriately. I was also promoted to a team lead and had a direct report to monitor. This role was my first supervisory position, so I had never approved time sheets or handled employment-related concerns. I asked for advice when possible, and researched on my own time whenever necessary."
22. CoStar Group is innovating the real estate industry. What does the word 'innovation' mean to you?
How to Answer
The term 'innovation' is often overused in business and development these days and has now become a buzzword that many people don't fully understand. The interviewer would like to know what you feel innovation indeed is. Include an example of a time when you have witnessed an innovative change in the workplace, or when you have exercised creativity. Be sure to express an understanding of the way CoStar Group Inc. is innovating the real estate industry.
1st Answer Example
"To me, innovation means presenting a new idea or making an existing idea better. It's essential to be innovative in the workplace, but often it's a misunderstood concept. An example of when I was innovative was when our company was facing budget cuts. I suggested that we begin to operate as though the cuts were already made, in an attempt to preemptively save funds. The concept worked well, and we were able to eliminate many unnecessary expenditures. I understand that CoStar Group Inc. is highly innovative because you are entirely disrupting the way that people approach real estate transactions. I am eager to join your team of talented developers."
2nd Answer Example
"Innovation means introducing a new process, orcreating a breakthrough. A time when I have been innovative was when I built a new tracking system in our company's CRM. I wanted to create a more accurate way to track projects with a simple option for our sales team to update the project stage. The owner of the company loved my creation, and now it's implemented company-wide."
23. Tell me about a time when you were particularly skilled in prioritizing tasks and completing a project on schedule.
How to Answer
CoStar Group Inc. has many projects on the go at one time, and they want to hear that you have a plan in place to keep yourself organized and well-prioritized. The interviewer wants to evaluate your time management skills and diligence when faced with prioritization. Start by mentioning that you are typically an organized person. From here, dive into a recent project where you were particularly skilled in staying organized and on deadline.
1st Answer Example
"I am a naturally organized individual. Without proper organization, a project can get out of hand quite quickly. I was recently involved with a project that required 30 hours of my time in two weeks while I was also in the middle of several other projects. I was able to stay on track with visual reminders, mid-day check-ins, and a strong support team. I ended up working some overtime, but that is par for the course as a software engineer."
2nd Answer Example
"When working as a freelancer, every project success was entirely my responsibility. Every new client project that I took on meant a great deal of organization on my part. To minimize time lost, I like to map out my plan of attack and then start the action sequence. I use a few tools like Monday and Evernote, to help me remain organized."
24. What challenges are you looking for in your next position?
How to Answer
CoStar Group Inc. knows that a perfect employment fit needs to go both ways. Just like the interviewer needs to know that they like you, they want to see that you love them back! Mention a few of the challenges that you are looking for in your next position and be sure to tie them into the duties and responsibilities mentioned in the job posting, or job description.
A challenge you may be looking for could be:
- Learning a new software program
- Leading a bigger team than you currently do
- Working on more robust products or services
- Stepping into your first leadership role
- Becoming immersed in a new industry
1st Answer Example
"When I started looking for a new developer job, I determined that it was important to find a role with a company that embraces the latest and greatest in systems and software. My current organization is very 'old-school' in their systems, and I do not want to fall behind in my technical abilities. I appreciate that you work with the latest software and are often the first to market with many solutions."
2nd Answer Example
"For the past six years, I have worked for a wonderful startup with great clients; however, I now have bigger fish to fry! I want to take on a role like this one where I can disrupt a very traditional real estate industry. To be more specific, I also want to learn more about cloud-based data solutions like EMR, Redshift, and Kinesis. I know that CoStar Group Inc. will be able to offer this challenge and I look forward to growing my career with you."
25. What is your first reaction when you do something wrong at work or make a mistake on a project?
How to Answer
This question is an honesty based query that will show the interviewer a lot about your character. How you react to an error made will tell the interviewer a great deal about you and your honesty level. If you made a mistake that could land you in a lot of trouble, would you try to hide the incident, or would you tell someone on your team right away, and have the situation rectified?
1st Answer Example
"I am my own biggest critic, so when I do something wrong or make a mistake, I am the first to voice it and look for a fix. I am independent and smart, so I am confident in my ability to repair any errors I create. If necessary, I would bring a colleague or manager into the situation to help me repair the situation. Most importantly, I am honest and also open about my work; owning up to any mistakes that I make."
2nd Answer Example
"I fully believe in honesty and immediately repairing what I have done wrong. I am not too proud to admit when I have made a mistake, but it's for the good of the team that everyone is open and honest when an error happens. Taking these situations as opportunities to become better is very important."
26. CoStar Group promotes from within, whenever possible. What do you see as the most challenging task in being a manager?
How to Answer
Being in a management role is always a significant challenge, and CoStar Group Inc. wants to know that you'll be able to step up to the task when the time comes. Share with the interviewer what you feel is the most challenging part of being a manager, and why. Also, discuss what you could do, or are currently doing, to make this task less complicated.
1st Answer Example
"I believe the biggest challenge in a management role for CoStar Group Inc. would be to lead everyone effectively when many team members work remote. I like to make a connection with everyone, so I would send friendly check-in emails, for instance, to ensure that everyone feels like an important member of the team."
2nd Answer Example
"I foresee the most difficult task as a manager with CoStar Group Inc. to be the even delegation of work. You will always have team members who are absolute rock-stars, then some who are a bit less enthusiastic or are lower producers. I would remind myself to distribute the work and responsibilities evenly despite my natural inclination to give more work to the high performers. In my current role, I am working with my underperforming team members to prepare them for a larger workload."
27. After you implement a solution to a problem, how do you test the effectiveness of that solution?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have strong follow-through skills and the ability to use data and analytics to support your decisions. The only way to test the effectiveness of a new solution is to keep a close eye on the immediate, and often longer-term, results!
Depending on the situation, you can use data, run reports, and compare/contrast your findings. If you have records of the data before your problem-solving solution, you can track the results of your new solution and analyze in a month, or beyond.
It can take time to see the results, so having a method for measuring them is essential. Give an example of a time you implemented a solution and found a way to measure the results to check its efficacy.
1st Answer Example
"I like to collect data, as well as anecdotal assessments of new procedures. It's great to have data to confirm if a new procedure was or was not effective, but I am a firm believer, too, in getting the team on board. Plus, as you implement a solution, sometimes those doing the actual day-to-day work or the actual implementation have a more accurate understanding of what's going on or what could be improved. Therefore, I am sure to ask my team how they think it's going, and if it's impactful."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, once our team comes up with a new strategy for a project or product add-on, we will conduct two focus groups. One test group will be on the original plan and the second, on the plan that we want to implement. The use of focus groups is the best way for us to measure if our new strategy will be effective enough to justify the time and funds that will go into the final project."
28. Why should CoStar Group hire you?
How to Answer
The interviewer at CoStar Group Inc. wants to hear about that one unique skill that sets you apart from the other candidates applying for this job. Think of your answer as your 'elevator pitch' or your qualifying statement. If you can't think of ways that you are unique, ask a few friends or family members what they feel sets you apart from other people. Their observations may help you understand how you are perceived.
Perhaps you already know what sets you apart! This skill could include any industry accolades, exceptional achievements, additional industry related training, a second language, or how involved you are in the community. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your most influential advocate.
1st Answer Example
"I have over a dozen years of experience in the real estate industry as a developer, giving me a unique edge and insight into the potential of CoStar Group Inc. products and services. I have creative solutions on how to position CoStar Group Inc. against the competition, and ideas that will help elevate your platform to the next level."
2nd Answer Example
"You should hire me because I am unlike anyone else you have interviewed before. When I started at my current company, I was the youngest developer they had ever hired. That didn't stop me from becoming the #1 front-end developer in the company within six months, in terms of production. I am dedicated to my craft and engaged in this industry to the point where I commit myself to take at least one technical or leadership related workshop every business quarter. I am a competitive achiever. You won't be disappointed when you hire me."
29. If you had half of a million dollars to build your own business, what would you do?
How to Answer
This question is more of a personal inquiry, allowing the interviewer to gain some insight into what brings you passion. If money was no object, what kind of business would you start? The interviewer will be able to learn something new and unique about you through this question. Avoid answers that would include building a business that competes with what CoStar Group Inc. is achieving!
1st Answer Example
"If I were given money to start my own business, I would build and sell curriculum for kids who want to learn to code. That would be an interest of mine as well as an additional income stream while still working full time as a developer for CoStar Group Inc.!"
2nd Answer Example
"That's a great question! If I had 500,000 dollars, I would invest the money into an up and coming tech startup. I have always had a huge interest in technology and advancements, so this would be right up my alley."
30. If you had to give a TED Talk tomorrow, what topic would you choose?
How to Answer
TED Talks are known for their slogan 'ideas worth spreading.' The platform introduces people to thought-leaders in education, business, science, tech, and other creative industries. CoStar Group Inc. has values that include caring for others, prioritizing work that positively impacts communities, and applying original thinking. What topic could you choose, that would add to these values while reinforcing your own beliefs?
1st Answer Example
"If I could give a TED Talk today, I would talk about the importance of embracing and learning lessons from your flaws. Nobody is perfect yet - in our society today, we all try to appear to be so. I would speak about the importance of accepting feedback, asking for help, and continually growing yourself as a person and as a professional."
2nd Answer Example
"I love TED Talks and have thought about this before! If I could present on any topic, I would discuss how joy and optimism affect our overall attitude and the outcome of our work and personal life. I am a big believer in the law of attraction, so this type of topic would be a primary interest."